Matthew 2:12
“And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.”
I love that through reading God’s word, I’m reminded that guidance, through dreams, was a significant part of the Christmas story and the events that followed!
For instance, Joseph was guided to Egypt for safety, through a dream (Matthew 2:13), then guided back to Israel after Herod’s death through a dream (Matthew 2:19 -20). Much of this ‘dreamy’ guidance was also fulfilling prophecies regarding the Messiah! Sometimes God’s guidance may come as warnings similar to those given to the wise men (Matthew 2:12) and to Joseph (Matthew 2:22-23).
Like Joseph, for those of us who may feel that life has taken us through some uncertain paths, it’s good to remind ourselves that God wants to be in such deep relationship with us that he actually yearns for us to ask for guidance and sometimes He guides through miraculous ways (like dreams). Or, maybe, like the Magi (Matthew 2:12), or the GPS in your vehicle, He is looking to re-route the direction of your life, because of a wrong turn you are about to take. If so, let’s learn to be sensitive to His voice and have the boldness and courage to take action when we are moved by the Holy Spirit.
In what areas do you need clear guidance? Take time to really answer that question. journal about it and talk honestly and candidly with God about it. Are you willing to submit to God’s direction, as Joseph did?
“Joseph obeyed. He got up, took the child and his mother, and reentered Israel. When he heard, though, that Archelaus had succeeded his father, Herod, as king in Judea, he was afraid to go there. But then Joseph was directed in a dream to go to the hills of Galilee. On arrival, he settled in the village of Nazareth. This move was a fulfilment of the prophetic words, “He shall be called a Nazarene.” Matthew 2:21-23 (MSG)
Be willing to lean into the guidance of the Lord. And watch as he leads and cares for you tenderly.